Is it just me or did there seem to be a disproportionate number of peace signs, smiley faces, and hearts (those very symbols of the freewheeling, free spirited, rebellious 60's) decorating, sewn or printed on every manner of accessories being shown for newborns, toddlers, and tweens at the Children's Club? And I can't leave out all the tie dye, patchwork, flowers ("flower power"!), hand knits, ponchos, and earth-toned suedes. It was as if designers banded together in anticipation of a whole new generation of optimistic, idealistic hippies and flower children.

Of course, I'm joking…I'm hardly suggesting a two-month-old infant is actually choosing his or her own hats, scarves, onesies, bags, blankets, burpies, shoes...or consciously setting out to make a fashion - let alone a political statement. But it does look as though manufacturers and their reps were hoping to woo and appeal to the customer who appreciates the mood, and/or attract the one who has already 'been-there-done-that'…be it mom, dad, aunt, uncle, grandma or grandpa (or family friend).

Speaking of peace signs, unfortunately, where there's peace, there's war. I couldn't help but notice the preponderance of camouflage prints - not only on show attendees (of all ages AND both sexes) but filling the booths where they emblazoned everything from teeny tiny stroller shoes and medium sized backpacks to gigantic blankets.

Admittedly, camouflage prints are not 'new', but they are always in 'style' and in fact, were a big statement on influential international runways when designers presented their women's ready-to-wear collections for Fall 2006. And perhaps at this moment in time, given current world events, peace signs and camouflage prints have suddenly seemed to take on a new, more poignant meaning.

Peace, love and happiness; plus camouflage cargos and printed t's from Amber Hagen.

Peace sign and camouflage bags from GoGo Gear.

At New York's Pier 94 (where the Children's Club show moved - just this time around - from the much more sprawling Jacob Javits Center), it seemed as if there were a delightful backlash against trendy trends and a renewed embrace of tried and true, old fashioned, traditional, timeless symbols by both established lines and new ones - those that always look great and are always in style. In evidence was a desire to go back to one's roots, back to basics, rediscover the simple pleasures and joys of arts and crafts and handiwork, and an honest to goodness desire to honor and preserve the environment.

In general, the accessory lines that stood out were soothing, comforting, wholesome, healthy, and visual. They not only looked good, but felt good. Versatility and practicality, as always, was another obvious 'plus' and most importantly, the best items actually DID something good; the wonderful combination of form and function is hard to beat and perhaps more important than ever, given all our busy multi tasking lives.

As I strolled the aisles looking for excitement and inspiration, the booths that attracted me and caught my eye were those that were irresistible because they instantly put a smile on my face and made me happy. And given the world situation, that's no small feat. I think it's quite natural that a lot of us adults would seek out scarves, bags, shoes, socks, layette, room furnishings, bedding, toys, etc. for the little ones, with an irresistible 'feel good', textural, tactile quality; vintage and retro inspired items that evoke a kinder, simpler, gentler time, are comforting, upbeat, whimsical, happy, optimistic, and innocent. Yes indeed…everything old IS new again.

But though retro and vintage may tie everything together, it must be executed in a thoroughly modern manner…and modernity is the key.

And while I've never been one who has particularly liked clothing or accessories that seem destined to make our little ones look as if they've grown up too fast (let kids be kids for as long as they can for heaven's sake!), this time more than ever, I was immediately drawn to the sweet, upbeat, happy, joyous, fresh, innocent, and childlike side of things. And I've never particularly liked things (especially geared for the very young), that are ostentatious, flashy, and over the top. Coincidentally, the ubiquitous and overdone use of 'bling' and sparkle is showing signs of abating even in the world of grown-up women's wear (and men's wear) and was the cover story of Women's Wear Daily recently ("Less Buzz About Bling: Jewelers, Hip-Hop Stars Tone down the Sparkle"). According to Sophia Chabbott (the story's writer), "Bling appears to be losing its luster." The phenomenon of over-the-top jewelry and watches is becoming passé and "the trendsetting hip-hop crowd is less focused on ostentation and comparing carats, turning instead to more refined pieces like fine Swiss watches and quality diamond jewelry."

Smiley face scarves from Jesse Walker.

From Fuzzy Couture.

Assorted flowers from Alivian Collection.

Artwork on a backpack from Dolca.

Just a note, I also do not care for the word 'trend'…or the concept. After covering fashion for as long as I have, one comes to believe that certain things always look good, are always welcome and relevant, and NEVER go out of style.

But while I may not like to use the word 'trend', that doesn't mean there weren't overall themes that kept recurring in the three days I covered The Children's Club. In addition to the ubiquitous peace, love, and happiness signs; camouflage prints; flora and fauna; hand knits and crochets; there were animals and creatures in every shape, size, and incarnation; plenty of seersucker and plaids; and bows, bows, and more bows. Personalization in jewelry (and monograms and messages on woven items) individualizes, adding a 'custom made' feeling.

One final observation…though the Children's Club will return to the Jacob Javits Center in October, I must admit I quite liked the relaxed quality, and intimacy of Pier 94. It was very 'user friendly': plenty of light, airy, wide open spaces and enough places to sit on a big comfy couch or chair in order to regroup, get organized, make phone calls, use a laptop, drink coffee, or have some lunch. (By the way, the catered breakfasts and lunches were especially good this time). The easy vibe and ambiance was very much in sync with the end of summer and the recent heat wave we've been suffering through. Speaking of which (and speaking of 'signs' of the times), the lifelike cast iron dog sculptures which were strewn around, decorating the floors and accessorizing the sitting areas, served as a reminder that we are in fact ensconced in the 'Dog Days of August'.

The 'Dog Days of August'.

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